Where natural arches frame beautiful landscapes

Steer a kayak through whitewater rapids, tackle the terrain on a mountain bicycle and camp overnight in the 136,621-hectare Canyonlands National Park, where adventures await those who want to visit for an hour or a week. Wake up the next day with a mission to climb a sandstone tower, ride a horse and take an 88-kilometer sightseeing tour in a four-wheel drive vehicle. End the day gazing at the stars above while planning more outings in the desert landscape, which might include a visit to scenic spots overlooking the mighty Colorado and Green rivers. Don’t want to trek alone? Enlist a guide for a backcountry excursion.

Located on the very eastern side of Utah, Canyonlands National Park wows with striking red buttes, delicate natural arches and stunning views of the rushing Colorado River and its tributaries. The park is divided into with three incredibly distinct districts — the Island in the Sky, the Needles, the Maze — plus the rivers themselves.

The Island in the Sky mesa is the most accessible part of the park, with a scenic byway traversing its landscape and offering easy access to hiking trails and spectacular vistas. The Needles district offers a more backcountry experience complete with sloping canyons and colorful spires best reached on foot via rugged hiking paths. The Maze is the most remote district, but if you make the trek, you’ll be rewarded with views of the beautiful chocolate drops (which are tall standing rock statues). Just save some time for kayaking on the Colorado River or visiting the spectacular prehistoric artwork in Horseshoe Canyon.